Really Quick Hors D'Oeuvre
A quick and elegant appetizer featuring creamy cheese topped with savory shrimp, served alongside crisp crackers. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or any casual entertaining.
Ingredients
- 8 oz Philadelphia cream cheese
- 5 oz can tiny shrimp, cooked, cleaned and drained ⓘ
- fancy crackers
Instructions
- Put the cream cheese cube on a nice plate.
- Drain the tiny shrimp and place them over the cream cheese.
- Arrange the crackers around the cream cheese and shrimp.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. You can substitute tiny shrimp with crab meat for a different flavor. If you want a bit of a kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or cocktail sauce on top of the shrimp. This dish is great for quick gatherings and pairs beautifully with Coral Shrimp Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hors d'oeuvre as an appetizer at your next gathering or alongside a refreshing salad for a light meal. Pair it with a crisp white wine or a light beer to complement the seafood flavors. For a more substantial spread, consider including other appetizers like Cheese 'Souffle' Casserole or Tunaroni Salad to create a delightful buffet.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the best texture, store the cream cheese and shrimp separately from the crackers. If reheating, do so gently in the microwave for a few seconds, but it's best served fresh for optimal flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Really Quick Hors D'Oeuvre contains roughly 119 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this hors d'oeuvre in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese and shrimp combination a few hours ahead of time. However, it's best to wait to add the crackers until just before serving to ensure they stay crispy and fresh.
What other toppings can I add to the cream cheese?
You can customize your cream cheese by adding herbs like dill or chives, or even a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness. Mixing in some spices or a bit of garlic powder can also enhance the flavor profile.
What can I serve with this hors d'oeuvre?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a light salad, or other finger foods like Fruit-Crab Cocktail or Party Snack Crackers for a delightful appetizer spread that guests will love.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).